Drivers often ignore this Highway Code rule in stationary traffic

Being stuck in traffic is a familiar experience for many drivers, especially those residing in bustling towns and cities. Driving often feels more like a sluggish crawl as progress becomes agonisingly slow, turning a 10-minute journey into a half-hour ordeal or longer. We're all aware that there are certain rules we must adhere to on the roads, but the Highway Code also contains some unexpected instructions that most drivers likely don't realise they should be following in specific situations.

One such rule applies when vehicles come to a halt while queuing in traffic. It's a common sight to spot brake lights illuminating ahead when you're stuck in traffic, perhaps due to an incident on the motorway or while approaching a roundabout on a busy A-road. However, according to the Highway Code, you shouldn't see brake lights in this scenario reports Birmingham Live [1].

This is because when stopped in stationary traffic, drivers should engage the handbrake and remove their foot from the brake, provided it's safe to do so. Drivers should also exercise their common sense and make their best judgement. The rationale behind this rule is to spare drivers from the glare of brake lights in front of them.

Despite this guidance, red brake lights are a frequent sight in stationary traffic, suggesting that this is a lesser-known driving rule. Many drivers opt to rest their foot on the brake, anticipating imminent movement and thereby avoiding the repeated use of the handbrake. But The Highway Code clarifies: "In stationary queues of traffic, drivers should apply the parking brake and, once the following traffic has stopped, take their foot off the footbrake to deactivate the vehicle brake lights."

"This will minimise glare to road users behind until the traffic moves again."

References

^ Birmingham Live (www.birminghammail.co.uk)
^ How long can Vaughan Gething last? (walesonline.substack.com)
^ Welsh school investigated for 'promoting evangelical Christianity' (www.walesonline.co.uk)